Friday, January 1, 2010

2010 New Year's Resolutions for the INN

New Years Day 2010. We have nearly completed a very successful holiday season with a safe and sane New Years. Successful in that guests, who blessed us with their presence, have had a really fine time in Lake Tahoe. Children squealing as they played in the fresh snow, ski/boarders returning from the slopes red-checked & smiling and those visitors who simply wish to chill appearing very relaxed. Almost makes you forget what a crummy year 2009 was due to the economy.

We subscribe to the theory that the “new normal” will continue to prevail in 2010. Those visitors fortunate enough to travel will be very discerning and value conscious. Our over all goal at Inn by the Lake will be to meet and exceed expectations.

Everyone these days strives to offer value. Especially, those in the travel business. Once again this year we will not be increasing our seasonal rates. In fact, we will continue to offer special discounts on a seasonal basis as demand and the economy dictate. Revenue from the sale of our guest rooms is our primary source of income, while most of the amenities we offer come free of charge. Not only do we plan to increase these complimentary offerings but also we hope to convey more clearly the low cost recreational opportunities that abound in our neighborhood.

We have learned this past year how to be very efficient without compromising the guest experience. While lean in administration, we are extremely fortunate to have a compliment of seasoned front line team members who willingly multitask and cater ever so well to the needs of our guests. While no one runs the risk of getting rich, we will continue to reward and nurture this, our most valuable asset, with competitive wages & benefits (which include health insurance). Perhaps more importantly, we will continue to maintain a pleasant workplace based upon mutual respect.

Inn by the Lake is entering its 28th year of operation. Tahoe Bowl celebrated its 50th anniversary this past year. In Europe these facilities would be considered relatively new. Many in the US might consider our architecture dated, we refer to it as vintage alpine. Fortunately, our buildings and grounds have been consistently upgraded and maintained and offer a level of comfort unsurpassed by the vast majority of our Lake Tahoe competitors. We promise to continue to maintain the highest level of care and will not compromise comfort, convenience, sanitation or security.

In order to maintain attractive pricing and specials, our capital budget will be limited this coming year. Guess we will have to postpone those new flat screen LCD TVs for another year. We will continue to offer expanded cable and HBO on our classic color receivers. If you come to the Lake Tahoe basin, one of nature’s wonders, primarily to watch TV you may wish to reconsider your priorities anyway.

Wishing all a happy, healthy and prosperous 2010!
Best Regards,
Dan